Upright Body and Correct Mindfulness

Teachings from Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju, recorded by the chief writer, Venerable HaiZe, on the twenty-third of October, 2022.

The Foundation of Dignity and Righteousness

Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju reminds us that the practice of Buddhism is not merely a formal activity performed within the temple walls. It is a way of life that must be integrated into our existence in this world. To maintain an upright body and correct mindfulness is a matter of the utmost importance for every practitioner.

An upright body, which is neither slouched nor distorted, refers to the proper posture we maintain while walking, standing, or sitting. This physical alignment is more than just a matter of form; it is a clear manifestation of self-respect and the cultivation of dignified conduct. When our body is upright, our heart naturally follows, reflecting a state of inner order and clarity.

The Path of Correct Mindfulness

Correct mindfulness means that our thoughts do not deviate from the Right Way. By aligning our mental state with the truth, we ensure that we do not create opportunities to plant negative causes. In our daily lives, we must constantly monitor our physical actions and our internal mental notes. If we find that our conduct or our thoughts have strayed from the path of purity, we must immediately adjust them.

To follow the Precepts is the essential method for ensuring that our physical actions and our mental state remain in harmony with the Right Way. The Precepts act as a protective boundary, guiding us back whenever we begin to wander into confusion or impurity.

Overcoming the Inertia of Habit

Laziness is a common trait and a deeply ingrained habit that most people carry within them. Without the firm restraint provided by the Precepts, we often find that while we may begin our practice with caution and sincerity, it is difficult to sustain that momentum over time. We may start with a clear intention to maintain an upright body and correct mindfulness, but our old habits soon pull us back into a state of laxity.

However, when we embrace the restraint of the Precepts, we gain a powerful tool to help us gather our scattered thoughts and correct our inappropriate physical actions. By transforming these habits, we can attain a state of meditative concentration. In this state, we are no longer easily disturbed by our own internal fluctuations or external interference, which allows our practice to remain steady and focused.

The Three Learnings of Precepts, Concentration, and Wisdom

It is only when we have achieved this stability that we have the opportunity to open our wisdom and realise our true nature as an awakened being. This is the profound significance of the Three Learnings of Precepts, Concentration, and Wisdom. By diligently practising these, we move from confusion to awakening, from wrong paths to the Right Way, and from impurity to purity. We must cherish every moment and continue to chant Namo Amituofo all the way, ensuring that our body and mind remain forever aligned with the light of the Buddha.

Namo Amituofo